Georgia has a rich history in country music, with a long list of famous country singers hailing from the state. The state’s capital, Atlanta, has been a hub for country music since the early 20th century, with many influential artists and record labels based in the city.
One of the most significant contributions to Georgia’s country music scene was the birth of the Atlanta country radio station WSB in 1922. The station played a crucial role in popularizing country music in the region and attracting top country talent to Georgia. Additionally, Atlanta’s country music venues, such as the Georgia Theatre and Eddie’s Attic, have served as launching pads for many up-and-coming country artists.
Georgia has also been a breeding ground for various sub-genres of country music, including bluegrass, gospel, and country rock. Many famous country artists from Georgia, such as Alan Jackson, Travis Tritt, and Luke Bryan, have gone on to achieve international success and have become ambassadors for the state’s country music heritage.
Overall, Georgia’s country music scene has left an indelible mark on the genre, and the state continues to produce talented and influential country artists to this day.
1. Alan Jackson
Alan Jackson is a country music superstar known for his traditional, honky-tonk sound and heartfelt storytelling lyrics. Born in Newnan, Georgia in 1958, Jackson grew up listening to gospel, bluegrass, and country music, which inspired him to start writing his own songs at a young age.
In the 1980s, Jackson moved to Nashville to pursue a career in music and soon caught the attention of record labels with his authentic country sound. He released his debut album, “Here in the Real World,” in 1990, which spawned hit singles such as “Wanted,” “Chasin’ That Neon Rainbow,” and the title track.
Throughout his career, Jackson has earned numerous accolades, including two Grammy Awards, 16 Country Music Association Awards, and 17 Academy of Country Music Awards. He has sold over 80 million records worldwide and has charted more than 50 Top 10 hits on the Billboard Country charts.
Jackson’s music often celebrates the simple pleasures of life, such as love, family, and home, and his traditional sound has helped him maintain a loyal fan base over the years. Some of his most iconic songs include “Don’t Rock the Jukebox,” “Chattahoochee,” “Remember When,” and “Where Were You (When the World Stopped Turning),” which was written in response to the 9/11 attacks and became a poignant anthem of healing and unity.
2. Jason Aldean
Jason Aldean is a country music singer, songwriter, and guitarist born on February 28, 1977, in Macon, Georgia. He first gained widespread recognition in 2005 with the release of his debut album, “Jason Aldean,” which featured the hit single “Hicktown.”
Aldean’s music is a blend of traditional and modern country, incorporating elements of rock and hip-hop into his sound. He is known for his gritty vocals, catchy hooks, and high-energy live performances. Aldean has released numerous hit songs throughout his career, including “Dirt Road Anthem,” “My Kinda Party,” and “Big Green Tractor,” and has sold over 15 million albums in the United States.
In addition to his music, Aldean is also a philanthropist, and has been involved in various charitable causes throughout his career. He is a supporter of the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation and has raised millions of dollars for cancer research through his annual “Concert for the Cure” events.
Overall, Jason Aldean is a talented and respected figure in the country music industry, and his music has left an indelible mark on the genre. His continued success and dedication to charitable causes have made him a beloved figure among his fans and peers alike.
3. Luke Bryan
Luke Bryan is an American country music singer, songwriter, and television personality. Born on July 17, 1976, in Leesburg, Georgia, Bryan grew up on a peanut farm and developed a love for music at a young age. After graduating from college, he moved to Nashville to pursue a career in music and began writing songs for other artists.
In 2007, Luke Bryan released his debut album, “I’ll Stay Me,” which featured hit singles such as “All My Friends Say” and “Country Man.” He quickly gained a following among country music fans and went on to release several more successful albums, including “Doin’ My Thing,” “Crash My Party,” and “What Makes You Country.”
In addition to his music career, Luke Bryan has also become a popular television personality, serving as a judge on the singing competition show “American Idol” since 2018. He has also hosted several awards shows, including the Academy of Country Music Awards and the Country Music Association Awards.
Luke Bryan’s music is known for its catchy hooks, upbeat rhythms, and relatable lyrics about love, life, and small-town living. He has won numerous awards for his music, including several Country Music Association Awards and Academy of Country Music Awards. With his down-to-earth personality and catchy tunes, Luke Bryan has become one of the biggest stars in country music today.
4. Travis Tritt
Travis Tritt is a country music singer-songwriter who rose to fame in the early 1990s with his blend of traditional honky-tonk and southern rock. Born in Marietta, Georgia in 1963, Tritt was influenced by the music of Hank Williams Jr., the Allman Brothers Band, and Lynyrd Skynyrd.
Tritt’s debut album, “Country Club,” was released in 1990 and spawned hit singles such as “Help Me Hold On” and “I’m Gonna Be Somebody.” He quickly established himself as one of country music’s most popular and dynamic performers, known for his high-energy live shows and gritty vocals.
Over the course of his career, Tritt has released numerous successful albums and hit singles, including “The Whiskey Ain’t Workin’,” “T-R-O-U-B-L-E,” “Anymore,” and “Foolish Pride.” He has won two Grammy Awards, four Country Music Association Awards, and has been inducted into the Grand Ole Opry.
Tritt’s music often reflects his working-class roots and his love of southern culture and values. His songs often deal with themes of love, heartbreak, and redemption, and his raw, emotional delivery has made him a favorite among country music fans. With his unique blend of traditional country and southern rock, Travis Tritt has cemented his place as one of the most iconic and enduring figures in country music history.
5. Kip Moore
Kip Moore is an American country music singer and songwriter born on April 1, 1980, in Tifton, Georgia. He burst onto the country music scene in 2011 with the release of his debut album, “Up All Night,” which featured the hit singles “Somethin’ ‘Bout a Truck” and “Beer Money.”
Moore’s music is a mix of traditional and modern country, with a distinctive rock and roll edge. He is known for his raw and emotional vocals, honest lyrics, and high-energy live performances. Moore’s music often explores themes of love, heartbreak, and the struggles of everyday life.
In addition to his music, Moore is also an advocate for various charitable causes. He has worked with organizations such as the T.J. Martell Foundation and the Wounded Warrior Project, and has helped to raise money for cancer research and support programs for military veterans.
Overall, Kip Moore is a talented and versatile artist who has left an indelible mark on the country music industry. His unique blend of traditional and modern country, combined with his dedication to philanthropic causes, has made him a beloved figure among his fans and peers alike.
6. Jerry Reed
Jerry Reed was an American country music singer, songwriter, and guitarist known for his unique style of fingerpicking and his humorous lyrics. Born on March 20, 1937, in Atlanta, Georgia, Reed began playing the guitar at a young age and quickly developed a reputation as a skilled musician.
In the 1960s and 1970s, Jerry Reed gained fame as a solo artist, releasing hit songs such as “Guitar Man,” “Amos Moses,” and “When You’re Hot, You’re Hot.” He was also a prolific songwriter and wrote songs for other artists, including Elvis Presley, Brenda Lee, and Chet Atkins.
Reed’s music blended elements of country, rock, and pop, and his distinctive guitar style influenced many other musicians. He was known for his humorous and often tongue-in-cheek lyrics, which added to his appeal among fans.
In addition to his music career, Jerry Reed was also a successful actor, appearing in films such as “Smokey and the Bandit” and “The Waterboy.” He was also a frequent guest on television shows, including “The Glen Campbell Goodtime Hour” and “Hee Haw.”
Jerry Reed’s contributions to country music have earned him numerous accolades, including induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2017. Despite his passing in 2008, his legacy continues to inspire and influence generations of musicians today.
7. Zac Brown
Zac Brown is an American country music singer, songwriter, and bandleader. Born in Atlanta, Georgia in 1978, Brown grew up in a musical family and was influenced by a variety of genres, including bluegrass, folk, and country.
In 2002, Brown formed the Zac Brown Band, which quickly gained a following for their energetic live shows and unique blend of country, rock, and jam band influences. The band’s breakthrough came in 2008 with the release of their album “The Foundation,” which included hit singles such as “Chicken Fried” and “Toes.”
Over the years, the Zac Brown Band has become one of the most successful and beloved acts in country music, earning numerous awards and accolades for their music, including three Grammy Awards and 14 Academy of Country Music Awards.
Brown’s songwriting often reflects his love of southern culture and his appreciation for the simple things in life, such as family, friends, and good food. He has also used his platform to promote charitable causes, including his own Camp Southern Ground, which provides support for children with developmental disorders.
With his soulful vocals, expert musicianship, and infectious energy, Zac Brown has become one of the most respected and influential figures in country music today.
8. Cole Swindell
Cole Swindell is an American country music singer and songwriter born on June 30, 1983, in Glennville, Georgia. He first gained recognition as a songwriter, penning hits for country music stars such as Luke Bryan, Thomas Rhett, and Florida Georgia Line before launching his solo career in 2013.
Swindell’s music is characterized by its catchy melodies, relatable lyrics, and upbeat tempo. He is known for his smooth vocals and ability to connect with his fans through his music. Swindell has released numerous hit songs throughout his career, including “Chillin’ It,” “You Should Be Here,” and “Middle of a Memory.”
In addition to his music, Swindell is also a philanthropist and has been involved in various charitable causes throughout his career. He has worked with organizations such as St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and the CMA Foundation to support music education programs in schools.
Overall, Cole Swindell is a talented and respected figure in the country music industry, and his music has resonated with fans around the world. His continued success and dedication to charitable causes have made him a beloved figure among his fans and peers alike.
9. Trisha Yearwood
Trisha Yearwood is a country music singer, actress, and cookbook author from Georgia, USA. Born on September 19, 1964, Yearwood grew up in a musical family and started singing at a young age. After graduating from college, she moved to Nashville to pursue a career in music.
Yearwood’s debut album, “Trisha Yearwood,” was released in 1991 and featured hit songs such as “She’s in Love with the Boy” and “The Woman Before Me.” She quickly became one of the most successful country music artists of the 1990s, with multiple number one hits and numerous awards, including three Grammy Awards.
In addition to her music career, Yearwood has also had success as a television personality and cookbook author. She has hosted several cooking shows and has written several best-selling cookbooks, including “Georgia Cooking in an Oklahoma Kitchen” and “Trisha’s Southern Kitchen.”
Yearwood’s music is known for its emotional depth, powerful vocals, and relatable lyrics about love, loss, and life. She has collaborated with many other artists, including Garth Brooks, and has been inducted into the Grand Ole Opry and the Georgia Music Hall of Fame.
With her talent, charisma, and versatility, Trisha Yearwood has become one of the most beloved and respected figures in country music.
10. Brantley Gilbert
Brantley Gilbert is an American country music singer and songwriter known for his raw, honest lyrics and rock-infused sound. Born in Jefferson, Georgia in 1985, Gilbert grew up listening to a mix of country, rock, and heavy metal music.
Gilbert’s music often reflects his rebellious spirit and his love of motorcycles and muscle cars. His breakthrough came in 2010 with the release of his album “Halfway to Heaven,” which included hit singles such as “Country Must Be Country Wide” and “You Don’t Know Her Like I Do.”
Over the years, Gilbert has earned a reputation as one of the most dynamic and energetic performers in country music, known for his high-octane live shows and intense stage presence. He has also become a respected songwriter, penning hits for other artists such as Jason Aldean and Colt Ford.
Gilbert’s music often deals with themes of love, heartbreak, and redemption, and his lyrics are known for their candid and unfiltered nature. He has been open about his struggles with addiction and has used his music as a way to connect with fans who are dealing with similar issues.
With his unique blend of country and rock influences, Brantley Gilbert has carved out a niche for himself in the world of country music and continues to be one of the genre’s most exciting and innovative artists.
11. Thomas Rhett
Thomas Rhett is an American country music singer and songwriter born on March 30, 1990, in Valdosta, Georgia. He is the son of famous country singer Rhett Akins, and grew up surrounded by music. Rhett first gained recognition as a songwriter, penning hits for country music stars such as Jason Aldean, Lee Brice, and Florida Georgia Line before launching his solo career in 2013.
Rhett’s music is characterized by its blend of traditional and modern country, incorporating elements of pop, rock, and R&B into his sound. He is known for his smooth vocals, catchy hooks, and relatable lyrics. Rhett has released numerous hit songs throughout his career, including “Die a Happy Man,” “Craving You,” and “It Goes Like This.”
In addition to his music, Rhett is also a philanthropist and has been involved in various charitable causes throughout his career. He is a supporter of organizations such as the Make-A-Wish Foundation and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, and has helped to raise millions of dollars for charity through his music.
Overall, Thomas Rhett is a talented and respected figure in the country music industry, and his music has left an indelible mark on the genre. His continued success and dedication to charitable causes have made him a beloved figure among his fans and peers alike.
12. Patty Loveless
Patty Loveless is an American country music singer known for her powerful vocals, emotional depth, and traditional country sound. Born on January 4, 1957, in Pikeville, Kentucky, Loveless grew up in a musical family and began performing with her siblings at a young age.
In the 1980s and 1990s, Loveless rose to fame as a solo artist, releasing hit songs such as “Timber, I’m Falling in Love,” “Chains,” and “Blame It on Your Heart.” Her music blended elements of traditional country, bluegrass, and rock, and her strong, soulful voice made her stand out in a crowded field.
Loveless’s music is known for its emotional depth and relatable lyrics, often touching on themes of love, heartbreak, and perseverance. She has been honored with numerous awards, including two Grammy Awards and 14 nominations, and has been inducted into the Grand Ole Opry and the Kentucky Music Hall of Fame.
In addition to her music career, Loveless has also worked as an actress, appearing in several films and television shows. She has also been involved in various charitable organizations, including St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Patty Loveless’s contributions to country music have earned her a reputation as one of the most respected and beloved artists in the genre. Her powerful voice and heartfelt lyrics have touched the hearts of millions of fans around the world.
13. Rhett Akins
Rhett Akins is an American country music singer and songwriter born on October 13, 1969, in Valdosta, Georgia. He first gained recognition as a songwriter in the 1990s, penning hits for country music stars such as Alan Jackson, Blake Shelton, and Luke Bryan. Akins launched his solo career in 1995 with the release of his debut album, “A Thousand Memories.”
Akins’ music is characterized by its traditional country sound, featuring a mix of ballads and up-tempo numbers. He is known for his distinctive twangy vocals and relatable lyrics. Akins has released numerous hit songs throughout his career, including “Don’t Get Me Started,” “That Ain’t My Truck,” and “She Said Yes.”
In addition to his music, Akins is also a respected figure in the country music industry as a songwriter and mentor to up-and-coming artists. He has helped to shape the careers of many successful country musicians, including his own son, Thomas Rhett.
14. Billy Currington
Billy Currington is an American country music singer and songwriter known for his smooth, soulful vocals and laid-back sound. Born in Savannah, Georgia in 1973, Currington grew up listening to a mix of country and R&B music, which has influenced his unique style.
Currington’s breakthrough came in 2003 with the release of his debut single, “Walk a Little Straighter,” which was inspired by his difficult relationship with his alcoholic father. He followed up with a string of hits, including “Must Be Doin’ Somethin’ Right,” “Good Directions,” and “People Are Crazy.”
Over the years, Currington has established himself as one of country music’s most beloved and respected performers, earning numerous awards and accolades for his music, including multiple Grammy nominations and CMA Awards.
Currington’s music often reflects his love of the outdoors and his appreciation for the simple things in life. His lyrics are known for their honesty and sincerity, and his smooth, soulful vocals have made him a favorite among country music fans.
With his easygoing charm and authentic sound, Billy Currington continues to be one of country music’s most enduring and beloved performers, and his music serves as a testament to the power of storytelling and connection.
15. Colt Ford
Colt Ford is an American country rapper, singer, and songwriter who has made a name for himself with his unique blend of country music and hip-hop. Born in 1970 in Athens, Georgia, Ford grew up listening to country music and playing sports. He was a professional golfer for several years before turning his attention to music.
In 2008, Ford released his debut album, “Ride Through the Country,” which featured a mix of country music and rap. The album was a success, and Ford quickly gained a following with his unconventional style. He has since released several more albums, including “Chicken and Biscuits,” “Declaration of Independence,” and “Love Hope Faith.”
Ford’s music is known for its catchy hooks, clever lyrics, and upbeat tempo. He often collaborates with other country music stars, such as Jason Aldean, Brantley Gilbert, and Toby Keith, and has worked with hip-hop artists like Bone Thugs-N-Harmony and Bubba Sparxxx.
In addition to his music career, Ford is also an avid supporter of the military and frequently performs at military bases and events. He has also appeared in several films and television shows, including “The Joe Schmo Show” and “Dukes of Hazzard: The Beginning.”
Despite his unconventional style, Ford has become a respected figure in the country music industry, and his music has earned him a devoted following of fans who appreciate his unique sound and authentic approach to music.
16. T. Graham Brown
T. Graham Brown is an American country and soul music singer known for his distinctive voice and soulful style. Born in Arabi, Georgia in 1954, Brown was influenced by a variety of musical genres, including gospel, R&B, and country.
Brown’s music often reflects his southern roots and his love of traditional country music. His breakthrough came in 1986 with the release of his album “Brilliant Conversationalist,” which included hit singles such as “Hell and High Water” and “I Tell It Like It Used to Be.”
Over the years, Brown has earned a reputation as one of country music’s most soulful and dynamic performers, known for his powerful vocals and high-energy live shows. He has released numerous successful albums and hit singles, including “Darlene,” “Wine into Water,” and “Memphis Women and Chicken.”
Brown’s music often deals with themes of love, heartbreak, and redemption, and his lyrics are known for their honesty and sincerity. He has been praised for his ability to blend country and soul music into a unique and authentic sound that resonates with audiences of all ages.
With his soulful voice and classic country sound, T. Graham Brown has established himself as one of the most respected and enduring figures in country music, and his music continues to inspire and connect with fans around the world.
17. Bill Anderson
Bill Anderson is an American country music singer, songwriter, and television personality who has been a prominent figure in the industry since the 1950s. Born in 1937 in South Carolina, Anderson grew up listening to country music and started writing his own songs at a young age. He attended the University of Georgia where he continued to hone his songwriting skills and began performing on local radio stations.
In 1958, Anderson moved to Nashville and signed with Decca Records, where he released his first hit single, “That’s What It’s Like to Be Lonesome.” Over the next few years, Anderson continued to produce hit after hit, including “Mama Sang a Song,” “Still,” and “The Tips of My Fingers.” He also became known for his songwriting abilities, penning hits for other country music stars such as Conway Twitty, Ray Price, and Brad Paisley.
In addition to his successful music career, Anderson has also made numerous television appearances, including hosting his own variety show, “The Bill Anderson Show,” in the 1960s. He has also been a regular performer on the Grand Ole Opry since the 1960s, and was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2001.
Throughout his career, Anderson has remained a beloved figure in the country music industry, known for his smooth vocals, heartfelt lyrics, and down-to-earth personality. His contributions to the genre have been significant, and his music continues to inspire and entertain fans around the world.
18. Ray Stevens
Ray Stevens is an American country and pop music singer, songwriter, and comedian known for his humorous lyrics and catchy melodies. Born in Clarksdale, Georgia in 1939, Stevens began his career as a session musician and songwriter, penning hits for artists such as Brenda Lee and Elvis Presley.
Stevens’ own music often reflects his quirky sense of humor and his love of wordplay. His breakthrough came in 1969 with the release of his hit single “Gitarzan,” which reached the top ten on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. He followed up with a string of hits, including “The Streak,” “Everything is Beautiful,” and “Misty.”
Over the years, Stevens has established himself as one of country and pop music’s most beloved and respected performers, earning numerous awards and accolades for his music, including two Grammy Awards and nine CMA Awards.
Stevens’ music often deals with lighthearted subjects and humorous anecdotes, and his lyrics are known for their cleverness and wit. He has also used his platform to support various charitable causes, including the Children’s Miracle Network and the Nashville Rescue Mission.
With his unique blend of comedy and music, Ray Stevens has become one of the most enduring and influential figures in popular culture, and his music continues to entertain and delight fans of all ages.
19. Mark Wills
Mark Wills is an American country music singer and songwriter known for his distinctive baritone voice and heartfelt lyrics. Born on August 8, 1973, in Cleveland, Tennessee, Wills grew up in a musical family and started playing guitar at a young age. He moved to Nashville in the early 1990s to pursue a career in music.
Wills’s debut single, “Jacob’s Ladder,” was released in 1996 and quickly became a hit. He went on to release several successful albums, including “Wish You Were Here” and “Permanently,” and had numerous hit singles, including “I Do (Cherish You)” and “19 Somethin’.”
Wills’s music is known for its emotional depth, honest lyrics, and traditional country sound. He has collaborated with many other artists, including Jamie O’Neal and Lee Ann Womack, and has won several awards, including a Academy of Country Music award for Top New Male Vocalist.
In addition to his music career, Wills has also worked as a television host and actor, appearing on shows such as “The Road Home” and “Falcon Crest.” He has also been involved in various charitable organizations, including St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and the Special Olympics.
Mark Wills’s contributions to country music have earned him a loyal fan base and a reputation as one of the most respected and talented artists in the genre. With his powerful voice and heartfelt lyrics, he has touched the hearts of millions of fans around the world.
20. Freddie Hart
Freddie Hart was an American country music singer and songwriter known for his smooth, soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics. Born on December 21, 1926, in Loachapoka, Alabama, Hart began his music career in the 1950s, performing with various bands and as a solo artist.
Hart’s breakthrough came in 1970, when his hit single “Easy Loving” topped the country charts and became a crossover hit, reaching the top 20 on the pop charts. He went on to have several more hits in the 1970s, including “My Hang-Up Is You” and “Bless Your Heart.”
Hart’s music is known for its emotional depth, honest lyrics, and smooth vocal style. He wrote many of his own songs, and his work often touched on themes of love, heartbreak, and the struggles of everyday life. He was a member of the Grand Ole Opry and was inducted into the Alabama Music Hall of Fame.
In addition to his music career, Hart was also an accomplished painter and sculptor, and his artwork was exhibited in galleries across the United States.
Freddie Hart’s contributions to country music have earned him a reputation as one of the most talented and respected artists in the genre. His smooth, soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics have touched the hearts of millions of fans around the world, and his legacy continues to influence generations of country music artists.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
